New bikie laws threat to us all
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FORMER judges believe controversial Chief Magistrate Tim Carmody, QC, is positioning himself for a promotion.

Several retired judges - and some current magistrates - have privately expressed concerns about Judge Carmody's willingness to publicly defend the Government's anti-bikie laws.

Last week at a swearing-in ceremony for two magistrates, Judge Carmody aimed a speech at apparent judicial dissenters, saying Parliament ran the state and the judiciary should apply Parliament's laws and not abuse their positions by voicing personal political beliefs.

Several sitting judges have raised questions about the laws or sought clarification about politicians' comments about the judiciary.

Highly placed sources said they believed Judge Carmody was seeking the position of District Court Judge, currently held by Patsy Wolfe or Supreme Court Chief Justice, held by Paul de Jersey.

There is speculation Judge Wolfe will retire and the Chief Justice will become the next Queensland governor or angle for a High Court appointment.

One source told The Courier-Mail they "really liked Tim'' but believe he was applying for a job with higher honours.

Others in legal circles said Judge Carmody, appointed by Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie last year, was trying to stay in LNP good books.

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